NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS | Race & Review
The All-in-One Flight Controller
The NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS comes with a built-in VTX, making it a true all-in-one flight controller. Gone are the days of using the Mark series of camera VTX combos for the Hummingbird, which adds unnecessary weight to the drone. With this new version, the weight has been significantly reduced, allowing for a better flying experience. Additionally, the drone also features a bi camera, which may be a point of contention for some, but personally, I find it to be a great addition. The bi camera adds versatility and offers a unique perspective during flights.
Powerful Motors
Equipped with 0802 25000 KV Motors, the NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS promises exceptional performance. Despite having two-piece bells, which some might find concerning, I have personally tested the drone by crashing it and flying it extensively, and I have yet to encounter any issues with bell separation or other motor-related problems. However, it would have been nice to have the option of an 0702 variant as well, for those who prefer a different motor size.
Impressive Flying Experience
The most notable aspect of the NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS is its exceptional flying capabilities. As a bind and fly drone, it offers a seamless experience out of the box, making it beginner-friendly. The tune and flight performance are truly impressive, allowing for smooth flights and precise control. Whether you are a seasoned pilot or a beginner looking for an easy-to-fly drone, the NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS delivers a satisfying flying experience for everyone.
Flight Footage
To get a better idea of the NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS in action, you can check out my live stream where I provided initial reactions and flew my first 10 or 12 packs with the drone. I have included a link to the stream in the description below, so make sure to check it out. The flight footage showcases the drone’s agility, stability, and overall performance, giving you a firsthand look at what it can do.
Product Overview
The NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS is a lightweight 65 mm drone that performs excellently in flight. This drone is equipped with reliable motors that provide sufficient power without any issues. The propellers used by NewBeeDrone, specifically the tri-blade props, have been proven to be effective for years, although they may bend when removed. However, the props stay firmly attached to the shaft, eliminating the problem of them flying off during hard crashes. Even if a prop does come off, it is easy to replace and get back in the air. However, it is worth noting that earlier versions of the Blue J ESC firmware that was shipped with the drone had some issues with overheating and potential fire hazards. Thankfully, NewBeeDrone provides instructions on how to update and reflash the ESCs to the correct version, ensuring the safety of users.
Powerful and Reliable Motors
The Hummingbird V3 ELRS is equipped with powerful motors that deliver exceptional performance. Despite its lightweight build, these motors provide ample power for smooth and stable flight. Users will not encounter any power-related issues while flying this drone, making it a reliable choice for racing and freestyle enthusiasts.
Durable Tri-Blade Props
NewBeeDrone has a long-standing tradition of using tri-blade props on their bind and fly kits. These props have proven to be durable and efficient, ensuring optimal performance during flights. However, users should take caution when removing the props, as they may bend due to their design. Nevertheless, this minor inconvenience does not outweigh the benefits provided by these reliable props.
Firmly Attached Props
One common problem among drone pilots is having props fly off during hard crashes. Fortunately, the Hummingbird V3 ELRS addresses this issue. The props stay firmly attached to the shaft, minimizing the chances of them detaching even during rough landings. This is a significant advantage as it prevents potential damage to the drone and avoids the hassle of constantly replacing lost props.
ESC Firmware Considerations
It is essential to be aware of the ESC firmware version that comes with the Hummingbird V3 ELRS. Earlier versions of the Blue J ESC firmware had some overheating and fire hazard concerns. Although it is unclear if the drone still ships with these versions, it is recommended to check for instructions from NewBeeDrone on upgrading and reflashing the ESCs to ensure safety. By following the provided guidelines, users can mitigate any potential risks associated with the previous firmware version.
The NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS is a lightweight and high-performance drone that is suitable for both race and recreational flying. Its powerful motors and durable tri-blade props provide reliable and enjoyable flight experiences. The securely attached props eliminate the common problem of them flying off during crashes. However, users should take note of the ESC firmware version and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safety. Overall, the Hummingbird V3 ELRS is a commendable choice for drone enthusiasts who seek a reliable and versatile flying experience.
The OSD Issues
One of the major problems I encountered with the NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS, just like its predecessor, the V2, is the OSD (On-Screen Display) on the original firmware it came with. Upon updating to the firmware released by newbie drone after the whoop’s launch, most of the issues were resolved. Previously, I experienced flickering on the OSD, with random numbers and characters appearing on the screen, along with other glitchy behaviors. However, after the firmware update, these problems significantly reduced. Although I still encountered occasional appearance of small numbers after entering Turtle mode, overall, my experience improved considerably. Most importantly, I did not experience any cutouts during flights, which had been my biggest concern. It is crucial for me to have access to information like battery voltage and flight times, and when the OSD cuts out, it becomes a guessing game.
An Unusual Incident
Another issue I faced with the NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS, although it might have been a rare occurrence, happened during a crash. I am unsure about the exact cause, but after the crash, the colors on the screen went haywire. It was as if the drone’s display had transformed into a backup camera for a car, complete with backup lines. Additionally, the roll direction was reversed from left to right. It was a peculiar and unexpected occurrence that I had never encountered before. However, I was able to resolve this problem by replacing the malfunctioning camera with a new one.
Durability Concerns
Based on my experience, I also observed that the drone’s canopy is susceptible to damage upon impact. In a particularly hard crash, the canopy broke. While this might be a result of the crash’s severity, it raised concerns about the drone’s overall durability. It is important to handle the drone with care and be cautious during flights to minimize the risk of such incidents.
The NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS offers an improved experience compared to its predecessor, the V2. Despite the initial OSD issues, updating to the latest firmware resolved most of the problems, enhancing the overall flight experience. The incident involving the display’s abnormal behavior after a crash was an unusual occurrence, but it was easily resolved by replacing the camera. However, the durability concerns regarding the drone’s canopy warrant attention, emphasizing the need for careful handling and cautious flight maneuvers.
The NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS: A Race & Review
The NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS is a versatile and affordable bind and fly drone that offers impressive flight performance. While it may require a few tweaks to compete in a racing environment, it is undoubtedly a great purchase for those looking for a flying experience that won’t break the bank.
Flight Performance
The Hummingbird V3 ELRS delivers excellent flight performance, considering its price point. It offers stability, agility, and responsiveness, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced racers. Whether you’re performing tight maneuvers or zipping through obstacles, this drone is up to the challenge.
Modification Potential
If you aim to take your racing game to the next level, a few minor modifications may be necessary. While the drone flies well out of the box, making some adjustments can enhance its performance. By upgrading components such as the canopy or camera, you can tailor the drone to your specific racing needs.
Price Point
What sets the Hummingbird V3 ELRS apart from its competitors is its affordability. Priced at just $89.99, this drone offers excellent value for money. You won’t have to break the bank to own a high-performing drone that can keep up with more expensive models.
Overall, the NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS is a highly capable drone that delivers an exceptional flying experience. With its all-in-one flight controller, powerful motors, and impressive flight performance, it is a solid choice for both beginners and experienced pilots. Although the inclusion of an 0702 motor option would have been welcomed, it does not take away from the overall quality of the drone. If you are in the market for a reliable, versatile, and performance-driven drone, the NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS is definitely worth considering.
The NewBeeDrone Hummingbird V3 ELRS is a fantastic bind and fly drone for racing enthusiasts on a budget. Despite a few minor modifications being necessary for competitive racing, this drone delivers impressive flight performance. With its affordable price point, it’s a great option for anyone looking to enter the world of drone racing.
